Joel Perez (minors02)

Joel Fidel Pérez Mendieta first name listed as Yoel while in Cuba

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 5' 10", Weight 190 lb.
• Born March 28, 1982 in Cuba

BR minors page

Biographical Information

Outfielder Joel Pérez played for Isla de la Juventud of the Cuban National Series, going 2 for 21 with five walks in his only season of play in Cuba. He defected to the United States in October 2004 with Yunel Escobar, Yamel Guevara, Johan Limonta, Jose Cordero, and Rafael Galbizo. Pérez was also a member of Cuba's junior national team that competed in the 2000 World Junior Championship in Edmonton. Perez was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 14th round of the 2005 Amateur Draft, immediately following Pedro Alvarez. Joel played one season in their farm system, hitting .242/.347/.427 for the Rookie League GCL Yankees. He struck out in 40 of 124 AB, but hit five home runs. In the field, he had two outfield assists and no errors. He backed up José Tabata in left and Wilkin de la Rosa in right.